Code to Require Hot Water Pipe Insulation

The update is expected to reduce water waste

How long do your building occupants wait for hot water?

According to the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), Americans waste millions of gallons of water by letting it run until the water is hot enough for use in showers and sinks. To cut down on waste and utility costs, the International Code Council has approved several changes for its 2015 edition, such as removing obsolete requirements that encourage oversizing of hot water piping leading to restrooms. The new edition also requires the insulation of nearly all hot water pipes in new commercial buildings.

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials is mulling a similar proposal. A final decision will come later this year.